Explore the Urban Walls of Lecce for a Unique Journey

What are the Urban Walls of Lecce?

The Urban Walls are the remnants of the city walls built in the 16th century to protect Lecce. They are located in the northwestern part of the city and include the Bastion of San Francesco. These walls replaced older and less fortified ones, as Emperor Charles V decided to equip Lecce and other cities in Southern Italy with more imposing defenses against Turkish invasions.

Who designed the Urban Walls?

The project was entrusted to military architect Gian Giacomo dell’Acaya. This architect also oversaw the reconstruction and fortification of Lecce Castle, creating a modern defensive system for the time that was perfectly integrated with the city.

Where are the Urban Walls located and how can one access the visit?

The main access point is from the info point on Via Leonardo Leo. From here, an aerial walkway leads directly to the walkways on the walls. Visitors walk at a height of about five and a half meters, enjoying a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding park.

What can be seen during the visit to the Urban Walls?

The tourist route allows exploration of: The elevated walkways along the bastions. The Bastion of San Francesco, with its internal spaces. The underground areas, equipped with multimedia tools that tell the story of the walls and Lecce in the 16th century. The moat, uncovered after centuries of oblivion.

Are there archaeological discoveries related to the Urban Walls?

Yes, during excavation work, archaeologists from the University of Salento found very important remains, including a Roman road. These findings testify to how Lecce was already an important urban and strategic hub in ancient times.

Why did Charles V want the Urban Walls?

In the 16th century, the Mediterranean was threatened by Turkish incursions. Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain, decided to fortify the most exposed cities in Southern Italy. Lecce, due to its position and importance, was equipped with more resilient walls and a castle transformed into a fortress. The Urban Walls are part of this grand defensive strategy.

What is the height of the Urban Walls?

The visitable walkways are located about 5.5 meters high. Walking atop the bastions allows visitors to imagine their defensive function and observe Lecce from an unusual perspective.

How are the underground areas of the Bastion organized?

The underground spaces host multimedia installations that make the visit engaging and easy to follow even for tourists who are not history experts. Videos, projections, and digital reconstructions explain the construction, use, and evolution of the walls over the centuries.

What can be found in the park near the Urban Walls?

The Walls overlook a park that houses interesting archaeological remains. Here, a Roman road has been found, as well as the original moat designed in the 16th century by Gian Giacomo dell’Acaya. After being hidden underground for centuries, the moat is now visible and enhanced.

How long does the visit to the Urban Walls last?

The visit has a variable duration, but on average, it takes about 45-60 minutes to walk the walkways, visit the underground areas, and stop to observe the multimedia installations. The route is not too long, making it easy to fit into a day itinerary in Lecce.

Are the Urban Walls suitable for all tourists?

The route is accessible to anyone who wants to discover the history of the city. Thanks to the walkway and well-organized spaces, the visit is comfortable even for families and organized groups.

Why visit the Urban Walls during a trip to Lecce?

Because they represent one of the most authentic testimonies of the military history of the city. In addition to the architectural charm, the Urban Walls offer a complete cultural experience: panoramic walk, archaeological excavations, and multimedia technologies. It is an original way to discover Lecce beyond the famous baroque churches and the historic center.

What other attractions are near the Urban Walls?

The Walls are located a short distance from Castle Carlo V, Piazza Sant’Oronzo, and the main streets of the historic center. After the visit, it is easy to reach Via Palmieri, Via Libertini, and Via Vittorio Emanuele II on foot, streets rich in artisan shops, local eateries, and typical restaurants where you can taste pasticciotti, puccia, and leccese coffee.

Can photos be taken during the visit?

Yes, the panoramic walkways offer very suggestive views of the city. The interiors of the underground areas, with their play of lights and digital reconstructions, are also great for photographs and travel memories.

What is the best time to visit the Urban Walls?

The Urban Walls are open for visits all year round. Spring and autumn offer ideal temperatures for walking on the bastions, while summer provides clear skies and perfect light for photos. Even in winter, the visit is interesting thanks to the covered spaces in the underground areas.